Tips for Virtually Learning at Home
my 2020 desk set-up for virtual school
The year 2020 could be defined as completely unprecedented. These past months have been absolute chaos, with an unusual pandemic taking over the entire world. Times were very challenging in the beginning, but we all took precautions and became adjusted to the new ways of life—which now seems to be the norm for a long time. One of the many major changes that have occurred, is schools everywhere having the option to be all-virtual. At the start, virtual learning was something that students had no choice but to get used to and become quite familiar with. Many students found this transition easy and were able to effectively learn from home with no problems. On the other hand, many students struggled (and may still be struggling) with this new way of learning. Understandably, becoming accustomed to a completely different type of learning than you’ve ever experienced before is a great challenge—especially when you are entering a new school for the first time, either in a new town or as a freshman. Many students perform much better in school as they are taught in person. Unfortunately, remote learning is something that doesn’t seem to be leaving the lifestyles of students and teachers any time soon; but not to fear! Below are some very beneficial and essential tips to possibly help your learning experience from home become somewhat less of an obstacle.
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself!: This first tip may be easier said than done, but it goes a long way. If you are new to the school and aren’t familiar with the teachers in your class, try to speak up and let the class know who you are! It can definitely be nerve-wracking, but I don’t doubt that many other kids in your class feel the same way. Taking the initiative will allow other kids to feel comfortable and be able to introduce themselves as well. Teachers also try their best to be as welcoming as they can, so they will feel pleased when their students do feel welcome and comfortable.
Buy or utilize some sort of planner: Planners are extremely useful, especially when you can be forgetful at times (like me). You can go out and buy a planner from your nearest stationary store, or use what you already have. There are many other options available if you’re not interested in spending money. Google Calendar, MinimaList, Daily Planner, and Planner Pro are just some of the numerous free planner apps available on mobile phones. Having a planner app on your phone can be increasingly accessible and effective, rather than having to write things down. With a planner, you can stay on top of your homework assignments, upcoming tests/quizzes, and other event school and out-of-school related.
Set a routine for yourself: This tip can go hand in hand with the previous and the following tip. Creating a routine for yourself will allow you to stay organized. If there are certain objectives you aim to complete throughout the day, then setting a routine will considerably benefit you. Make it a point to complete a lot of your assignments each day at a certain time, as well as make time for other things (such as exercising, eating, spending time with family, etc.). Be able to incorporate your routine into your daily life.
Manage your time very wisely: As mentioned above, managing your time wisely can be helped by setting a routine for yourself. This school year can get very hectic and stressful, so being able to balance out your time (without overworking yourself) can improve your lifestyle. Make time to get some fresh air, spend some time with your family, talk to/hang out with some friends, or do something you’re passionate about, while also staying on top of your schoolwork and studying for that upcoming test. During times like these, time management is key to having a successful learning experience.
Have food by your side: I get extremely hungry while in school—even if it’s just for a few hours. Breakfast usually doesn’t fill me up, so I like to have a small and healthy snack accessible. Food and water are very important, being the elements that physically keep us going and alive. Even if schoolwork can be time-consuming, please make sure you are eating as well. A lot of kids don’t enjoy breakfast or skip it because that’s what they’ve always done; but try to at least have a glass of water and a small healthy snack (fruit, pretzels, chips, etc.) by your side, to help you get through your classes.
Arrange a nice workspace, if you can: If you are fortunate enough to have a desk or some type of workspace, use it to your advantage! Have pens and pencils handy, as well as your planner, food, and other essentials. Make it feel nice and comfortable, enough to motivate you to learn. I know it can be very tempting to join your virtual classes from your cozy bed—trust me, I know—but you want to have a productive start to your day by being ready, with full attentiveness, at your workspace. Your dinner table can also work just fine! Anywhere with a table, quiet (or moderately quiet) surroundings, and enough space for you to focus and work on your schoolwork is great for virtual learning.
Try not to be a couch potato: This tip may sound funny (and it is), but it is also very serious/crucial for your health. Exercising and getting fresh air every day are extremely important. With trying to stay safe during quarantine, and the way our laziness can sometimes get the best of us, being able to keep our minds and bodies active is so critical. Staying active and getting some safe exposure to the sun has also been proven to increase your mood and mental health. After your classes, make it a point to go outside sometime when the sun is out, and maybe even in the evening (if you prefer). A quick run, various exercises, or even a simple walk, can prevent you from bad health, a bad mindset, and practicing bad habits.
Develop helpful resources: With the internet, there is an infinite amount of resources to help us do school. If you are struggling in a class or are having a hard time with a specific topic, there are many YouTube channels and videos to help you out. Whether it be for Math, Science, History, English, or other courses; there are videos for all. The internet also has many other tips for virtual learning, beyond the ones mentioned here. Another helpful resource is your teacher! Many teachers hold extra help sessions during after-school hours, so if your teachers do, it might help you understand what you’re learning in class better. You could also email them, planning out a time after school when they could help you with any problems or questions you may have. Tutors are also incredibly useful. Of course, this can be a last resort, since you’d usually have to pay for a tutor. But you could even acquire the help of a friend who’s good in a certain subject and who might be simply willing to help you out with your struggles and homework. Virtual learning can be tough and cause conflicts, but being able to find and develop the most useful resources will truly help your learning experience in the long run!
